Suspended Doctor Appears For Alleged Manslaughter Charge

A 39-year-old doctor who had his practising licence suspended appeared at the High Court in Suva yesterday.

Marvin Ray Ketenilagi appeared at the High Court before Justice Daniel Goundar.

Ketenilagi is charged with one count of manslaughter.

It is alleged that on January 25, 2018, in Suva, Ketenilagi allegedly assaulted Shri Chand. This allegedly caused Mr Chand’s death.

At the time of the assault, Ketenilagi was reckless of the risk that his conduct would cause serious harm to Mr Chand.

The deceased was 64-years-old at the time of the offence.

Prosecutor from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Rajneel Kumar, told the court that the defence lawyer was not present in court, however he had signed the agreed facts of the matter.

He also told the court that the accused had punched the deceased on his chest and mouth which resulted in the death of the deceased who was suffering from a heart condition.

He also told the court that there were witnesses present during the time the alleged incident took place.

Ketenilagi told the court that his lawyer , David Toganivalu, could not be present in court.

“As per my lawyer’s secretary, Mr Toganivalu’s legal practicing licence is suspended,” he said.

The accused told the court that he was also suspended from practising as a doctor after disciplinary action was taken because of the case.

Justice Goundar told the accused to speak to his lawyer in relation to the defence representation or engage a new counsel.

The matter was adjourned to August 16 for mention.

Bail was extended.

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